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Safe Holiday Treats for Dogs

Happy Holidays! As the holiday season moves into full swing, many of us are busy cooking delicious seasonal meals. Your dog will no doubt be paying close attention as those yummy dishes come out of the oven. Fido is part of the family, so you may very well want to treat your pet to some special snacks this time of year. You’ll want to be very careful with what you feed your canine pal, however: many of our favorite foods are toxic to dogs. We’re here to help! Below, a San Jose, CA vet lists some safe treats for dogs.

Meat/Fish

Many types of cooked, unseasoned meat and fish are safe for Fido. Just be sure to remove the bones and skin, and avoid anything seasoned with spices. Beef, chicken, turkey, and salmon are a few great options.

Veggies

Fido can enjoy lots of different veggies. Cooked pumpkin and sweet potato are both safe for Fido, and are even healthy. Your canine pal can also enjoy cooked beans, peas, potatoes, and carrots.

Fruits

Fido should never be given anything that contains pits or seeds. Even ones that aren’t toxic are dangerous, as they can cause serious intestinal blockages. That said, you can give your pooch bananas; berries, such as blueberries; and the flesh of apples.

Dairy

A bit of cheese here and there is okay, as long as your pooch isn’t lactose-intolerant, but you don’t want to overdo it with this fatty treat. Cooked eggs are safe, as is plain yogurt. While you shouldn’t give Fido real ice cream or eggnog, you can make doggy versions of these popular foods. Look online for recipe ideas.

Foods To Avoid

Make sure you know what foods are toxic to dogs. Chocolate; caffeine; avocados; and raw dough are a few common foods that are poisonous to our furry friends. Grapes, raisins, and currants are extremely dangerous to Fido, as are products that contain xylitol, a common ingredient in many processed foods. Macadamia nuts, bones, and pitted fruits are on the no-no list as well. You’ll also want to take care not to give your canine pal any raw foods, or anything that contains garlic, onions, scallions, or chives.

All of us here at your local San Jose, CA veterinary clinic want to wish you a safe, happy, and healthy holiday season. Please feel free to contact us anytime!